Taking a Stand...

I learned some valuable lessons from a friend today and wanted to share:

1) When taking a big, bold stand on something, expect to meet big, bold resistance.
2) When setting yourself up as an expert, expect arguments. Most people consider themselves to be experts. For every truth you present, there will be 10 other views on the same subject- each convinced in their own mind and considering their opinion to be the most valid.
3) A soul cannot be invaded or a mind changed, no matter how well you debate or how hard you try to persuade. Only a supernatural influence can bring conviction. Don't waste time arguing.
4) Don't make assumptions or rely on someone else's word for things you present as fact, think for yourself- do your own study.
5) Those who think themselves wise and well-learned, will be regarded as fools. God resists the proud but uplifts the humble.
6) A Chinese Proverb says, "A foolish man, thinking he is wise, uses many words to instruct and impresses few; while a wise man, satisfied in his wisdom influences greatly, though saying very little."

I will take these things to heart! Jesus held all the wisdom of the universe, yet He was humble, using simple examples and speaking words the everyday person could understand. He presented truth to those who would listen, yet didn't insult their intelligence by spelling it all out for them. He respectfully allowed people to consider and grasp the meaning for themselves as the Spirit led...